This past couple of weeks have been a rollercoaster. The first group of nurses have complete the first mentoring module at Connaught Hospital, and I am beyond proud of their perseverance and commitment to improving patient care.

Even though I’ve been in the hospital for a year now, some of the situations I’ve encountered still leave me heartbroken. The conditions these nurses face every day are beyond challenging, from shortages of basic supplies to outdated infrastructure. At times, it feels like the entire system is working against them, making their jobs nearly impossible.

But in the midst of these challenges, I continue to be deeply encouraged by their determination. Despite the obstacles, they listened to every piece of advice I shared, eager to learn and adapt. They didn’t hesitate to ask questions when they were unsure and showed a genuine hunger for knowledge. Their resilience is inspiring—they are fighting not just for themselves, but for their patients, their communities, and the future of healthcare here.

Watching them take on new information and apply it immediately, even in such a difficult environment, has been a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Change is slow, but it’s happening. These nurses are proof that, despite everything, progress is possible.

As we move forward with the next modules, I’m excited to see how these first steps will evolve and shape the care they provide. They’re paving the way for others to follow, and I am incredibly honoured to walk alongside them in this journey.

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I’m Katie

Hello and welcome! I’m thrilled to share my life and experiences with you as I serve with Mercy Ships in Sierra Leone. Growing up in a small town in Scotland, I never imagined my path would lead me to the bustling city of Freetown, where I now navigate both the challenges and beauty of this incredible country. My work with Mercy Ships focuses on mentoring nurses and improving post-operative care. In this blog, I want to share the real, unfiltered life of living in Sierra Leone, the moments of joy and hope alongside the struggles and setbacks. You’ll hear stories of resilience, the small everyday miracles, and the tough challenges I face when working to serve this community. Join me as I navigate this journey, embracing both the hard truths and the victories, one day at a time.

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